overbending

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vickers22

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recently been doing quite a bit of dressage with zak, and he is overbending alot on the bit-he seems to be playing with it, tilting his head to one side and almost chewing on it or something. What can i do to help bring his head up?He is in a french link hanging cheek, but he does it in a snaffle as well. Any help appreciated as i have an ODE in three weeks and need to practice as our dressage is AWFUL!
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oh and he has had his teeth checked, i dont think he is in pain he just tucks his head in and leans down on it
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When i first started schooling James he would overbend. My instructor said to get your hands and lift them higher but at the same time hold them futher up the horses neck. At the same time 'sponge' with your reins. Then once they have their head in the right place, put your hands back down.
I guess it i sort of 'pulling' the horses head back up. I doesn't look very good but it works a treat!

Probably makes no sense but heyho! lol
 
I have a few suggestions but I don't know what will work with your boy if any;
1. Put him in a milder bit...when horses back off their bit, a straight bar nylon or nathe can encourage them to take more contact, then you can stretch them down and forward.
2. Every time he overbends (particularly if he is doing it to lighten his contact), ride him forwards by closing the legs on, and soften the hands forwards slightly.
3. Lunge him in long side reins (too long) and then gently sway his head in and out on the lunge til he starts to stretch down and forwards, releasing his topline and neck...keep him going forward.
Hope these help , but hey, what do I know???
S
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